Substitute Teacher / Tennessee
2026 data Tennessee board official source

Tennessee Substitute Teacher License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Fills in for absent teachers. Requirements range from diploma to license.

What the Tennessee data shows for Substitute Teachers

Becoming a licensed substitute teacher in Tennessee means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 2,000 training hours, a passing score on a state-approved exam, plus a background history check. Tennessee regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Degree".

Upfront cost is $100 on a 5-year cycle. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Tennessee, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

Tennessee evaluates out-of-state credentials case-by-case rather than through a published reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in Tennessee

Education / Training Hours
Degree
2,000 hours
Exam Requirement
Required
Initial License Fee
$100
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 5 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required

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Compare all states for Substitute Teacher All Tennessee licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Tennessee licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Substitute Teacher in Tennessee? ▼
In Tennessee, the license path calls for 2000 education/training hours, a passing exam score, and a $100 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Substitute Teacher in Tennessee? ▼
To become a licensed substitute teacher in Tennessee, you must meet the state's requirements including 2000 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Tennessee licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Substitute Teacher license to Tennessee from another state? ▼
Out-of-state substitute teacher credentials get a case-by-case review in Tennessee rather than automatic recognition. Interstate compacts exist for a number of professions and might still help. Confirm the details with the Tennessee licensing board.
Does Tennessee require a background check for Substitute Teacher licensing? ▼
Yes, Tennessee requires a criminal background check as part of the substitute teacher licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.